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Published on: April 11, 2012
Ilizarov non-free bone plasty for extensive tibial defects
Dmitry Y Borzunov1, Alexander V Chevardin
1Orthopaedic Department 16, Russian Ilizarov Scientific Center for Restorative Traumatology and Orthopaedics, 6, M. Ulianova Street, Kurgan, 640014, Russian Federation. borzunov@bk.ru
Purpose:
The purpose of this study was to present a retrospective comparative overview of the Ilizarov non-free bone plasty techniques of one-stage multilevel fragment lengthening and gradual tibilisation of the fibula used for extensive tibial defect management.
Methods:
Extensive tibial defects in 83 patients were managed either by multilevel fragment lengthening (group I, n = 41, mean defect size 13.1 ± 0.9 cm) or gradual tibilisation of the fibula (group II, n = 42, mean defect size 12.5 ± 1.2 cm) using the Ilizarov apparatus. The initial findings, treatment protocols and outcomes of those patients treated within the period 1972-2011 were studied retrospectively by medical records and radiographs, and statistically assessed with Microsoft Excel and Attestat software.
Results:
Group I had multilevel fragment lengthening over one stage that averaged 288.0 ± 14.4 days. The mean total period of gradual tibilisation of the fibula in group II was 316.0 ± 29.7 days. The patient's age in the latter group had an effect on the completeness of leg-length equalisation.
Conclusions:
The techniques can be used to manage extensive tibial defects as all the defects bridged, leg-length discrepancy and deformity were corrected and patients were able to load their limbs.
